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Homemade Chili

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This homemade chili is thick, hearty, and packed with bold flavors from ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and smoky spices. It’s a perfect comfort food for chilly nights, game days, or meal prep—simple to make, yet incredibly satisfying! 🌶️🍲🔥

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chili:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (if using lean meat)
  • 1/2 cup onion (diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans (drained & rinsed)
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans or pinto beans (drained & rinsed)
  • 1 cup beef broth or water (for desired consistency)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste (for richness)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (adds depth of flavor)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lime juice (for a touch of acidity)

For the Spice Blend:

  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For Topping (Optional):

  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Diced avocado
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions
  • Crushed tortilla chips or cornbread

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

  1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add ground beef (and olive oil if needed) and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
  3. Stir in onions and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes, Beans & Liquid

  1. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, drained beans, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and vinegar/lime juice.

Step 3: Add Spices & Simmer

  1. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, black pepper, salt, and cayenne.
  2. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and let cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Adjust & Serve

  1. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If too thick, add more broth. If too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes.
  2. Ladle into bowls and top with cheese, sour cream, avocado, or your favorite toppings!

Notes

  • Make It Spicier: Add extra cayenne, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce.
  • Slow Cooker Version: Brown beef first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
  • Make It Vegetarian: Swap meat for extra beans or lentils and use vegetable broth.
  • Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

 

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/homemade-chili/